Local cruises don’t break the bank

Lady Alderbrook has opened its deck to the public two days a week for summertime cruises on Hood Canal.

The 54-foot yacht owned by Alderbrook Resort &Spa is usually reserved for private bookings, but you can hop aboard until Aug. 28.

The yacht is among the highlights the public can enjoy at the resort, which turns 100 years old this year. You don’t have to stay overnight to hike, golf, dine and participate in activities at the 88-acre resort.

The special cruise offers scenic views of the Olympic Mountains and a colorful history of Hood Canal.

Boat captain Cindy Sund, director of marine services, leaves the driving to others so she can narrate the 90-minute afternoon cruise.

“It’s an opportunity to get out on the water and enjoy the canal,” Sund said. “I get a lot of people who are locals and they say, ‘Wow, I never knew!’ Just from the comments I get, they really enjoy it.”

Sund has a personal connection to the canal.

“I tell interesting little stories. Some are word-of-mouth passed down. My family has been here prior to statehood,” she said. “Mostly I talk about the canal and point out interesting things.

“I name the peaks if they’re out.”

Snacks, soft drinks, beer and wine are available for purchase on the boat.

Sund said the cruise is for all ages. A ramp leads to the boat. “It’s an easy boat for people in walkers and wheelchairs,” she said.